Should Coroners investigate stilllbirths?
The government has launched a consultation on proposals to give coroners the power to investigate all full-term stillbirths so bereaved parents
get the answers they deserve.
Key facts:
- Currently, coroners can only hold inquests for babies who have shown signs of life after being born. Stillbirths are investigated by the Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch.
- Some parents have raised concerns about this process and want a more transparent and independent system, so we are asking for views on whether coroners should be able to investigate stillbirths.
- Coroners can give parents much needed answers but also crucially make recommendations to prevent future avoidable deaths so fewer people have to experience the terrible tragedy of losing a child.
Why this matters:
Every stillbirth is a tragedy for bereaved families, these proposals would ensure that bereaved parents have their voices heard and we learn the lessons which will prevent
future stillbirths.
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